Day 90- The Coming of the Lord- 1 Thessalonians 4:13-5:11

Today's passage is full of joy and hope as we anticipate the second coming of Christ and being joined with Him and those who have passed before us. As believers, we have this comfort knowing that we will one day be with all believers who have passed before us. What a comfort during times of grief! At the same time, I can't help but have a sense of urgency for those who are lost. As noted in this passage, the day and time of Christ's return will be a surprise, like a thief in the night. Knowing that time is growing shorter, should we not be eager to spread this good news with those around us?

Things to consider...

At the end of each section its says to encourage one another. What do each of these sections teach that would cause us to encourage each other with these words? 

Think about the day the Lord returns and the promises we have of being with Him for eternity. Praise God for this hope we look forward to because of Jesus' resurrection!

Pray...
Thank God for providing comfort during our sadness when loved ones pass away, knowing that if they are believers we will one day see them again. Ask God to help you share this Good News with others who are around you who don't believe. 





The Bux-Mont & Telford Campuses of the Penn Valley Church Multi-site Network are participating in the e100 Challenge, a 100-day Bible reading program. True revival comes from prayer and knowing the Word of God. We can only live the life God intended if we know what He says about it. Join us as we read through this plan and grow deeper in our knowledge of God's Word.

Day 89- All Scripture is God-breathed- 2 Timothy 3:10-4:8

In 2 Timothy 3:1-10 Paul's focus is on false teachers, seeing how they live one way, and teach another. When we begin today's passage in verse 10, we see a clear contrast with "You, however" as Paul provides a different model for Timothy. He calls him to faithful living and ministry, holding fast to the scriptures and continuing to follow his example. Paul reminds of how God's Word is to be central, equipping us for everything and providing truth for every situation. There are those who will create their own form of 'truth' simply to accommodate and fit their own desires. We must be cautious of this, turning only to the truth in God's Word. 

Questions to consider...

What are some ideas today that are perceived to be 'truth' but fall short of being correct in scripture? Why is it important to be aware of these? 

What are some practical tools that will help us identify God's truth when the world's 'truth' seems to be acceptable? (Look back on Ephesians 6:10-20)

Pray...

Lord, help us to stand firm in Your Word and Truth. Please grant us wisdom and knowledge to decipher present issues that contradict Your Truth. Thank you for equipping us with your Word and providing for us. 






The Bux-Mont & Telford Campuses of the Penn Valley Church Multi-site Network are participating in the e100 Challenge, a 100-day Bible reading program. True revival comes from prayer and knowing the Word of God. We can only live the life God intended if we know what He says about it. Join us as we read through this plan and grow deeper in our knowledge of God's Word.

Day 88- Good Soldiers of Christ- 2 Timothy 2:1-26

Click here for today’s passage

In 2 Timothy, Paul, who is approaching the end of his life, writes to Timothy to encourage him to persevere though the trials that will come and to stand firm in truth. He encourages him to pass on the gospel to faithful men, who will then in turn teach others about Christ, so that the gospel may be preserved for generations to come. He urges Timothy not to be distracted from his task to spread the gospel, to meditate on it and be open for God to give him understanding. The believer needs to be mindful of his actions fleeing youthful desires and pursuing things of God, through His power at work. God’s empowering and the believer’s efforts work together. 

Questions to consider…

What are the benefits of training younger generations in the gospel at an early age and entrusting them with the gospel? 

What is the connection between Paul's warning to flee youthful passions and the passing on and spreading of the gospel? 

Pray…

Pray for the younger generations of believers. Pray that they'll grow in knowledge of who God is and the grace He has given us. Pray also for God's strength as you face trials  daily that may hinder you from living the gospel and sharing it with others. 



The Bux-Mont & Telford Campuses of the Penn Valley Church Multi-site Network are participating in the e100 Challenge, a 100-day Bible reading program. True revival comes from prayer and knowing the Word of God. We can only live the life God intended if we know what He says about it. Join us as we read through this plan and grow deeper in our knowledge of God's Word.

Day 87- The Love of Money- 1 Timothy 6:3-21

Paul begins today’s passage revisiting the idea of false teachers and their faulty thinking that godliness leads to gain. He is quick to share how wealth and riches are of no gain when a person has an eternal perspective. Instead of putting energy and focus on the desire to gain wealth, as Christians we are challenged to “pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness”. No matter our financial situation God desires us to place our trust and hope in Him, that He will provide.

Questions to consider…

In what practical ways can you pursue one of the things that Paul challenges us to seek? 

How is money a distraction from this? 

Pray…

Thank you Lord for providing for our needs. Thank you for the reminder that our hope and attention should be on eternal things, not on earthly wealth that will pass away. Please help us to be wise and generous with what you’ve entrusted to us, that we may use it for your glory. 

The Bux-Mont & Telford Campuses of the Penn Valley Church Multi-site Network are participating in the e100 Challenge, a 100-day Bible reading program. True revival comes from prayer and knowing the Word of God. We can only live the life God intended if we know what He says about it. Join us as we read through this plan and grow deeper in our knowledge of God's Word.

Day 86- Elders and Deacons- 1 Timothy 3:1-16

This passage begins by laying out the characteristic traits that leaders in the church should posses. The intent of the description is to give a picture of a mature Christian, who has demonstrated that the gospel has had a direct impact on their lifestyle. Paul continues on the passage by explaining why these characteristics are essential to the church. These household rules, or instructions for how the church should conduct itself, are put into place so that the church can uphold the truth.  

Questions to consider…

These guidelines were given to help the church function more effectively as a whole. What is the benefit of having leaders with the characteristics?

As a church, we are the pillar and foundation of the truth, or the gospel. If we compromise our conduct, how does this affect the world’s view on God’s church? What is the ultimate consequence of not following these guidelines?

Pray…

Praise God for His guidelines and instructions that are in place to help us and uphold His truth. Pray for the leaders and people in our church, that we would possess these characteristics; so that we will be a strong witness in truth to those we come in contact with. And when people do notice these qualities, pray that we always point them back to the One who enables us to demonstrate them. 

The Bux-Mont & Telford Campuses of the Penn Valley Church Multi-site Network are participating in the e100 Challenge, a 100-day Bible reading program. True revival comes from prayer and knowing the Word of God. We can only live the life God intended if we know what He says about it. Join us as we read through this plan and grow deeper in our knowledge of God's Word.

Day 85- The Supremacy of Christ- Colossians 1:1-23

“…all things have been created through him and for him. He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together.”

From this passage, this was one section that held my attention. It was wonderful to read this passage and dwell on the power and authority of our Savior. All things were created for Him. Everything. Thinking through everything I encounter just in a day in terms of being created by Him and for Him alone is an amazing thought! From the person who is hard to love some days, to the creation around us, it all was created for Him, just like I am! It truly puts life into perspective and simplifies! Not only was everything created for Him, but He holds it all together. The little worries I deal with to the larger issues in life, He holds it together according to His will and desire, because I was created for Him. His authority is incomprehensible, but meditating on it makes us unable to do anything but worship Him.

This passage can be somewhat common, but I’d encourage you to re-read it a few times. Think about areas in your life that it would be beneficial to remember that He holds it all together and that all things were created for Him. From a difficult or fearful situation, the loss of a job, or a difficult person in life, these verses easily put our thoughts back into perspective of why we are here!

Pray…

About these areas in life. Ask Him to remind you of His authority and control. Pray that He will “fill you with the knowledge of His will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives, so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord…”

The Bux-Mont & Telford Campuses of the Penn Valley Church Multi-site Network are participating in the e100 Challenge, a 100-day Bible reading program. True revival comes from prayer and knowing the Word of God. We can only live the life God intended if we know what He says about it. Join us as we read through this plan and grow deeper in our knowledge of God's Word.

Day 84 Philippians 4:2-9

BACKGROUND: Paul visited Philippi during his second missionary journey and established a church there, first with the conversion of Lydia (Acts 16:13-15).  He wrote this letter to them most likely during his imprisonment in Rome, urging and challenging them to live the Christian life.  Think about this theme as you read this passage and meditate on the questions below.

Why the appeal to Euodia and Syntyche (see Php 2:1-4)?  And then to yokefellow and Clement (hint: Gal 6:1-2)?

What are some keys you see to a joyful life (see Paul’s example in his response to imprisonment in Acts 16:25)?  How might you use Paul’s framework on thinking (v8) and/or doing (v9) to address a sinful pattern in your life?

Paul prescribes prayer as the antidote to anxiety (v6).  When these exhortations are heeded, what results?  If you lack joy and peace, what might that indicate?

PRAY: Thank GOD for his power and plan for peace in our lives.  Ask Him to help us live out our lives by faith, replacing anxiety with prayer, and committing our thoughts and deeds to His glory.

                                                                      Jane Reagan/Chris Moyer

Day 83 Ephesians 6:10-20

BACKGROUND: Paul’s letter to the Ephesian church was most likely written while he was in prison in Rome.  While a specific purpose is not stated outright, the letter addresses the “wealth” a believer as in Christ, the “walk” that is suitable for the believer, and the “warfare” that we are to expect from our enemy, Satan.

What are the devil’s schemes?  What is the oldest scheme used by Satan (see Gen 3:1-5)?

What are we really struggling against (v 12)?  Why is it important to keep this in mind?

What are our defenses for the spiritual war?  Which one do you especially sense needs to be applied to fight the battle today?

Note the emphasis Paul places on prayer (vv18-20).  Is prayer your first line of defense or a last resort?

PRAY: Thank God that He provides his armor for you.  Pray for all the saints and especially for one of Penn Valley’s ministers of the gospel to be able to fearlessly make known the gospel.

                                                                            Jane Reagan/Chris Moyer

Day 82 Galatians 5:16-6:10

BACKGROUND: In this letter from Paul to the church in Galatia, he defends his apostolic authority and concisely explains justification by faith in Christ rather than by works.  He also includes teaching on how Christians should live by the power of the Holy Spirit.

According to vv 16-17, why is it so hard to live a Spirit-led life?

Use the fruit of the Spirit to inventory your life.  Based on this passage, what is your life characterized by – the fruit of the Spirit or the sinful nature?

How does GAL 6:1-2 challenge you in how you respond to others today?  How is it that the law of Christ is fulfilled in so doing (hint: Matt 22:37-40)?

PRAY: Thank the Lord Jesus for not leaving us as orphans and sending the promised Holy Spirit to us just as He said he would.  Pray that the Holy Spirit will help you to identify areas of your life that you have yet to “crucify” and bring you to a place of greater yieldedness to Him.

                                                                 Jane Reagan/Chris Moyer

Day 81 Romans 8:1-39

BACKGROUND: Over the next few days we will examine some key messages Paul sent to the churches.  Today’s selection is taken from his letter to the church in Rome, which was written to help ground the believers in:

• An understanding of the doctrine of salvation (chapters 1-8)
• An understanding of how Gentiles benefit from the unbelief of the Jews (9-11)
• An explanation of how to practice the general principles of the Christian life (12-15)

As you read this rich passage, take note of several important words/phrases: “in Christ”, “the Spirit”.

What are the benefits of being “in Christ”?  How does that impact your understanding of your identity ~ are you defined by your actions (sinful or otherwise) or by Someone else?  As you read the truths contained in v14-17 how do these impact the way you view yourself and your life?

What are some of the hallmarks of the work of the Holy Spirit according to Paul (8:6, 9, 14-16, 26)? How might understanding these benefits bring a fresh perspective to something you are struggling with today?

According to 8:37 “in all these things we are more than conquerors” ~ in what things?  Are those “things” wearing you down today? Examine v 32, 38-39 and refresh your soul with these truths about God and His love for you.

                                                                             

PRAY: Thank God for your identity in Christ as a beloved son/daughter.  Ask Him to give you a renewed perspective on your sufferings in light of future glory.  Ask Him to open your heart to a deeper grasp of the ways He is for you and loves you.

                                                                             Jane Reagan/Chris Moyer

Day 80 Acts 25:1-28:31

BACKGROUND:

In today’s reading we see the culmination in Paul’s mission of Acts 1:8 “to the ends of the earth” and of his desire expressed in his letter to the Romans (Romans 1:10-11) and of God’s reassurance that he would indeed go to Rome (Acts 23:11). Does your life ever look like one unending uphill battle?  As you read this passage observe all of the challenges Paul faces in going to Rome and notice how he turns all of them into opportunities to share the gospel.

Does opposition necessarily mean that you are going the wrong way?  What can you learn from Paul about how to respond when life does not seem to go as planned?

During his house arrest in Rome, how did Paul spend his time (see the letters to the Philippians, Ephesians and Colossians)?  Does this inspire you to look at your current life circumstances in a different way?  Why or why not?

PRAY: Thank God for the work of His Spirit in spreading the gospel and making disciples throughout the ages.   Ask God to help you change your view of one particular circumstance in your life in which you have previously been unable to recognize God’s sovereignty.

                           

                                                                 Jane Reagan/Chris Moyer

Day 79 Acts 16:1-20:38

BACKGROUND: In this portion of Scripture, Paul continues to seek and obey the Holy Spirit in advancing the gospel.  He continues to follow a now familiar pattern in establishing churches ~ preaching the gospel first to the Jews in the synagogues, then taking it to the Gentiles.  After converts were made, Paul and his companions would then encourage and strengthen new believers in the faith and appoint elders.  Paul and the other missionaries would frequently part ways in an effort to reach new territories and to strengthen the faith of the existing churches. 

Is it strange that Paul circumcised Timothy given that he had opposed those who imposed circumcision upon Gentile converts?  After all, he had just returned from the council at Jerusalem with the decision that this was not required.  Why do you think Paul circumcised Timothy?

How does persecution seem to affect the furtherance of the gospel (16:20-24, 27-33; 17:1-2,5,10-12; 18:1, 6, 7-8)?  How did persecution seem to affect Paul’s faith (16:25)?  What is the Holy Spirit compelling you to do that you are resisting because it takes you out of your comfort zone?

Why did Paul announce his Roman citizenship when imprisoned in Philippi (16:35-39)?  Why did he refuse to leave jail without the magistrate’s escort?  What are the implications today as we practice our faith as citizens of the United States of America?

Think about Paul’s praise for the Bereans (17:11).  Are you exercising discernment in how you receive Biblical instruction and in how you give it?

PRAY: Thank God for his loving compassion that opened the door of your heart to faith in the gospel message.  Ask the Holy Spirit to help you follow through on the things you don’t feel equipped or adequate to do.

                                                               Jane Reagan/Chris Moyer

                                                                                                                                                

Day 78 Acts 15:1-41

Background: Success in spreading the gospel to the Gentiles and the growth of Gentile churches created problems: some Jewish Christians came to Antioch and insisted that circumcision should be required prior to salvation.  Paul further elaborated on this faction in Galatians 2:1-5.  In an effort to follow God when faced with difficulties and division, Paul and Barnabas were sent from Antioch to Jerusalem to meet with the apostles and elders about this question.

What are some of the ways these men evidenced maturity as they dealt with this matter of dispute?

How might you apply the principles followed by the godly leaders of the Jerusalem Council to a matter of dispute between you and a brother or sister in Christ today or in the future?

Why did the council reach the conclusion that circumcision was not required as a prerequisite for becoming a Christian and at the same time issue instructions to the believers about following dietary laws and refraining from sexual immorality?

Paul and Barnabas disagree (v36-41).  What does this tell us about unity?  Will we all see situations the same way?

PRAY: Thank God for the examples set forth in Scripture on how to resolve conflict in a godly manner.  Ask Him to help you understand your part in and how to resolve current conflicts to His glory.

                                                                                                                                                           Jane Reagan/ Chris Moyer

Day 77- The First Missionary Journey-Acts13:1-14:28

2 While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” (Acts 13:2)

The Holy Spirit is continuing to be on the move! Some would say the book of Acts is a book of "The acts of the Holy Spirit" working in the lives of the early Christians.  There definitely is a constant theme of the Holy Spirit leading God's people on a mission to reach the world. 

Questions to Ponder...

1.) In chapter 13, how were the first missionaries sent on their mission?

2.) In chapter 14, how did the first missionaries conclude their mission?

3.) What is the role of the local church in missionary work?

Ways to Pray...

Ask the Lord to guide you and listen to the Holy Spirit's prompting in your life to do the good work that God has created you in advance through Christ Jesus.

Day 76-The Road to Damascus-Acts 9:1-31

Wow! In today's reading we see God's glory, power and grace displayed in the transformation of Saul's life. God is continuing to build his church and display his manifold wisdom to the world! How ironic that Jesus would confront and choose His lead persecutor to be his one of his lead ambassadors!  Jesus is clearly King and He continues to expand his Church through the work of the Holy Spirit in-spite of the persecution.

Questions to Ponder...
1.) If Jesus had already ascended to heaven, why did Jesus ask Saul : "Saul, Saul why do you persecute me?" 
2.) Even thought Saul was converted, his Jewish peers did not stop persecuting the church. What does this tell us about the intense spiritual battle for the message of Jesus Christ?
3.)In verse 31, who encouraged the church?

Ways to Pray...
Father, thank you for calling me out to be one of your ambassadors. Lord please give me your boldness to continue to live out the Gospel message.

Day 75- Good News for All- Acts 10:1-11:18

This mystery is that through the gospel the Gentiles are heirs together with Israel, members together of one body , and sharers together in the promise in Christ Jesus." (Ephesians 3:6)

Praise God for this mystery that was once hidden but now is revealed! God's plan to reach the world through Jesus Christ is coming to light. God has a plan to redeem the world from its curse. Salvation is available to all who believe in the sent One Jesus Christ.

Questions to Ponder...

1.) Why do you think God spoke to Peter about going to Cornelius' house?

2.) What was the sign that the Gentiles were saved?

3.) When the Jews heard that the Gentiles were baptized by the Holy Spirit, what was their response?

Ways to Pray...

Thank God for opening the door for you a Gentile to receive His grace. Ask Him to open your eyes to His grace to other people in your life.

Day 74- Sharing the Word- Acts 8:26-40

Acts 8:26-40

Have you ever had a problem and you didn't know what to do and wished that God would just write it in the sky for you?  Well in today's reading we see God speak very clearly to a man named Philip to go and do something. The man named Philip, obeyed and was used by God to bring the message of salvation to someone and they received it!

Questions to Ponder...

1.) Have you ever felt the Spirit telling you to do something or say something but ignored it?

2.) What were the benefits of Philip obeying the Spirit's prompting?

3.) What were the risks of Philip obeying the Spirit's prompting?

4.) Is God currently telling you something to do?

Ways to Pray

"Be still and know that I Am God." Psalm 46:10  

Father help me to be still enough to hear your Spirit's prompting in my life and may I obey it immediately.

e100 Challenge- Day 72- Growth and Persecution- Acts 3:1-4:37

Acts 3:1-4:37

"When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus." Acts 4:13

In today's reading, we again see the power of the Holy Spirit taking over Peter and John. These men's lives had been radically changed by this man called Jesus!  The religious leaders knew they could not stop this movement from growing. Something powerful had taken over these mere fisherman and was rapidly spreading through the city of Jerusalem. 

Questions to Ponder...

1.) Why do you think the religious leaders were astonished by what they saw in Peter and John?

2.) What does this say about who God chooses to do his work?

3.) Why do you think the believers were "all one in heart and mind?"

Ways to Pray...

God please use me today to spread your message to those who do not know you. Father I am yours, use me as you please!

e100 Challenge Day 56- Sermon on the Mount Part 1- Matthew 5:1-6:4

Today's passage is the first part of the Sermon on the Mount, one of Jesus's most well known sermons. He begins with the beatitudes or blessings that we have when we follow Christ's character. He follows with two challenging metaphors on salt and light to illustrate the impact that followers of Christ can have on the world. The passage ends with several foundational teachings about heart issues, showing love towards our enemies and those around us, and giving to those in need. 

Questions to consider:
1) Since Christ came to fulfill the law, not abolish it, how should we handle the law? 
2) Under the headings of murder and adultery we see that a person can be guilty of more then just these two actions. What does this tell us about our motives, thoughts and actions?
3) Why do you think Christ warns us against "practicing righteousness before other people"? 

Thank the Lord for His teachings and the wisdom that we can gain! Pray for a humble heart and a Spirit that is willing to accept these teachings and put them into action in our own lives. 
The Bux-Mont & Telford Campuses of the Penn Valley Church Multi-site Network are participating in the e100 Challenge, a 100-day Bible reading program. True revival comes from prayer and knowing the Word of God. We can only live the life God intended if we know what He says about it. Join us as we read through this plan and grow deeper in our knowledge of God's Word.

e100 Challenge Day 55- Baptism and Temptation- Matthew 3:13-4:17

Todays Passage

Have you ever wondered, “Does Jesus really understand what I’m going through? He’s God, how could He have ever felt this pain or temptation or anger?”. It’s easy to think that, even though we know that Jesus suffered and felt pain and temptation just like we do. In this passage there are two events that paint a picture of Him taking on human-likeness. In the beginning of the passage, John baptized Jesus even though He didn’t need to repent or be cleansed. By being baptized He identified with the sinful people He came to save through His life and death.  The second part of the passage retells how the devil tempted Jesus in the dessert, but He triumphed over the devil in the wilderness. He resisted the tempting offers the devil placed before Him by standing firm in God’s Word, setting a perfect example for His followers.

Questions:

1) Consider each of the temptations that the devil presented to Jesus. Can you relate to any of them?  How can the verses He used help you in situations that are tempting?

2) What is the value of using God’s Word to fight temptations and struggles? What are some that you continually fall back on?

Ways to pray:

Thank you Jesus for coming to earth and becoming like us, yet remaining perfect, setting the perfect example. Help us to use your example to fight temptation, calling on Your Name when we face challenges.

The Bux-Mont & Telford Campuses of the Penn Valley Church Multi-site Network are participating in the e100 Challenge, a 100-day Bible reading program. True revival comes from prayer and knowing the Word of God. We can only live the life God intended if we know what He says about it. Join us as we read through this plan and grow deeper in our knowledge of God's Word.